Cowichan-Malahat-Langford MP Alistair MacGregor says in comments about the speech from the throne that the Liberal government has reiterated many of its previous and unfulfilled commitments to Canadians.
“Prime Minister Justin Trudeau and the Liberal government have not matched their big promises with real action to help people through this pandemic and into the recovery,” stated MacGregor. “Every step of the way, my NDP colleagues and I have had to fight for people and convince the government to work with us to deliver the help people needed.”
While the Nov. 23 speech promised increased action on the climate emergency, the government failed to commit to ending fossil fuel subsidies nor help workers and communities transition to a renewable future, MacGregor pointed out.
During the 2021 campaign, the Liberals promised a Foreign Buyer’s Vacant Home Tax, but there was no mention of it in the throne speech.
“The Liberals’ definition of affordable isn’t actually affordable for people,” noted MacGregor. “Residents of my riding have watched the cost of housing skyrocket during Justin Trudeau’s tenure, and I’m disappointed to see that he’s backed out on another campaign promise that would have helped find a safe and affordable home.”
While affordability was a keynote of the speech, New Democrats are quick to point out the government failed to address Pharmacare, the closing of tax loopholes for the ultra-wealthy, Indigenous housing, and the Guaranteed Income Supplement claw backs that have left thousands of vulnerable seniors on the brink of poverty.
Unfinished business from the throne speech that MacGregor looks forward to fighting for includes: increased investments in health care and housing; community preparedness in the face of climate disasters; criminal justice and policing reform; a national paid sick leave program; and ending the government’s legal battle against Indigenous children who faced discrimination.